373 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to have the 116000 helpline for missing children operational in 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1005/11]

385 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assist the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in setting up a 116000 service for missing children in view of the necessity for such a service, the European dimension and the funding requirements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1090/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 373 and 385 together.

The issue of children who go missing is primarily a matter for the Garda Síochána. A hotline for missing children is in operation in some EU Member States. My Office is currently involved in discussions with other relevant Government Departments in relation to the establishment of this service.